Hirochika Nakajima, Professor (Waseda University) et al.
The course will introduce the history and decision-making system of the EU's advanced technology policy, and explain how technology policy is analyzed and evaluated. The course will examine how international cooperative research is conducted, and offer a comprehensive explanation of the EU's research on advanced technology. Advanced technological research in the EU is regarded as significant, in that the "Lisbon Strategy" aims at the creation of a knowledge-based society, and the foundation of a "European Research Area (ERA)" encourages technical innovation. Policy is based on a systematic program for the study of science and technology, and the seventh such program (FP7) is now under way. The fruits of this research contribute to the resolution of global problems, such as environmental issues, and aid the fight against disease and global poverty, thereby promoting human rights and a healthy society. The course aims to provide a holistic understanding of the EU's science and technology policy from an interdisciplinary perspective.